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In This Guide: SAMSUNG 55-Inch Crystal 4K UHD TV | LG 55-Inch C2 Series TV With Soundbar | LG 55-Inch OLED G2 Series TV | SAMSUNG 55-Inch Neo QLED TV | TCL 55-Inch Roku Smart TV | Buyer’s Guide | How To Use Your 55-Inch Smart TV | FAQs
If you’re looking for a high-quality TV that can fit in any room, the This Old House Reviews Team is here to help. Our pick for a premium viewing experience at home at a fraction of the weight, cost, and size is a 55-inch screen. We have reviewed the best 55-inch TVs on Amazon and developed a buyer’s guide to help you make an educated purchasing decision. Here are our top picks.
Top 5 55-Inch Smart TVs
Below, you’ll find our top choices for 55-inch smart TVs that are currently available on Amazon:
- Best Features: SAMSUNG 55-Inch Crystal 4K UHD TV
- Best Speaker Bundle: LG 55-Inch C2 Series TV With Soundbar
- Best Picture: LG 55-Inch OLED G2 Series TV
- Best OLED Alternative: SAMSUNG 55-Inch Neo QLED TV
- Most User-Friendly: TCL 55-Inch Roku Smart TV
Compare 55 Inch Smart TVs
| Product | Display Technology | Refresh Rate | HDMI Ports | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SAMSUNG 55-Inch Crystal 4K UHD TV | UHD | 60 Hz | 3 | 35.7 pounds | 8.9 x 48.5 x 29.5 inches |
| LG 55-Inch OLED G2 Series TV | OLED | 120 Hz | 4 | 37.7 pounds | 48.1 x 1.1 x 27.5 inches |
| SAMSUNG 55-Inch Neo QLED TV | QLED | 120 Hz | 4 | 48.3 pounds | 9.3 x 48.3 x 30.2 inches |
| TCL 55-Inch Roku Smart TV | UHD | 60 Hz | 4 | 23 pounds | 48.7 x 11.8 x 30.4 inches |
| LG 55-Inch C2 Series TV With Soundbar | OLED | 120 Hz | 4 | Not listed | Not listed |
| Product | Display Technology | Refresh Rate | HDMI Ports | Weight | Dimensions |
Best Features: SAMSUNG 55-Inch Crystal 4K UHD TV
SAMSUNG 55-Inch Crystal 4K UHD TV
- $497.99
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Comes with a compact, easy-to-use remote control
✔ Uses a crystal processor to provide a high-quality 4K picture
✔ Equipped with a high dynamic range that clearly displays a variety of colors
✘ Doesn’t have an LED or LCD backlight to increase the screen’s brightness
✘ Has a fairly low refresh rate of 60 hertz (Hz)
What Customers Are Saying
The majority of customers said that this TV was well-priced, especially as far as SAMSUNG TVs go. Users also found the menu system to be responsive and easy to navigate. However, some buyers didn’t like the layout of the remote control, and others wished that the TV came with more HDMI inputs.
Best Speaker Bundle: LG 55-Inch C2 Series TV With Soundbar
LG 55-Inch C2 Series TV With Soundbar
- $1993.98
- $2699.98
- 27% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Compatible with several Apple devices, including AirPlay and HomeKit
✔ Has an operating system that gives you access to your favorite streaming platforms
✔ Comes with a voice- and motion-activated remote
✘ Can only connect to two speakers at a time using Bluetooth
✘ Doesn’t come with an HDMI cable
What Customers Are Saying
Satisfied customers praised this LG C2 Series TV for its rich, true tones and snappy, variable refresh rate. While some users weren’t happy with the performance of the TV’s built-in speakers, they said that bundling it with a soundbar and subwoofer package turned their living room into a complete home theater. Though most users appreciated how dark the black tones of the display were, others thought they were too dark.
Best Picture: LG 55-Inch OLED G2 Series TV
LG 55-Inch OLED G2 Series TV
- $1696.99
- $2099.99
- 20% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Has a native refresh rate of 120 Hz
✔ Includes Dolby Vision IQ that adjusts the TV’s picture settings based on your environment’s lighting
✔ Built with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant capabilities
✘ May not have the same longevity as QLED models
✘ Has a price on the high end for 55-inch smart TVs
What Customers Are Saying
Customers highlighted this TV’s crisp, clear image in their positive reviews. Multiple viewers were also impressed with the speed of the TV’s processor. Alternatively, some customers wished that the TV came with its own stand, as they didn’t want to mount it. One user also mentioned that the picture couldn’t keep up with the action without fast Wi-Fi.
Best OLED Alternative: SAMSUNG 55-Inch Neo QLED TV
SAMSUNG 55-Inch Neo QLED TV
- $1297.99
- $1697.99
- 24% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Comes with a standard remote control as well as SAMSUNG Smart Control
✔ Can purchase SAMSUNG Q-Symphony soundbars for an enhanced audio experience
✔ Includes Amazon Alexa to help you change channels, open apps, and more
✘ Comes with more ports than most people need
✘ Only has one central leg stand to support the screen
What Customers Are Saying
Happy customers continuously mentioned this TV’s stunning picture quality. Some of these same users also appreciated the quality of the built-in sound, stating that they didn’t need a separate soundbar. In negative reviews, a few users weren’t satisfied with this TV’s local dimming function.
Most User-Friendly: TCL 55-Inch Roku Smart TV
TCL 55-Inch Roku Smart TV
- $549.99
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Supports voice search through its free Roku mobile app
✔ Includes four HDMI ports
✔ Comes with an easy-to-use remote control
✘ Has a refresh rate of 60 Hz, which is slower than other top-rated models
✘ Doesn’t have an Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) HDMI 2.1 port, which is required for advanced video game systems, such as the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X
What Customers Are Saying
The majority of customers who reviewed this TCL TV said that its Roku system was easy to navigate. Although this 4K TV didn’t produce an image that was comparable to OLED or QLED TVs, users said that it was still decent for the price. However, some customers started to experience glitches with the user interface after using the TV for several weeks.
Buying Guide for 55-Inch Smart TVs
Each 55-inch TV has certain specs that impact its performance and user experience. Below, we discuss some of these features to help you determine the right model for you.
Resolution
A TV’s resolution is measured by the number of individual pixels it produces, with more pixels creating a sharper image. Two resolution measurements you’ll frequently see in the product descriptions for 55-inch smart TVs are 1080p and 4K.
Built-In Technology
Smart TVs get their name because they have built-in technology. For example, many have an operating system, such as Google TV or Android TV. This software helps you navigate Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and other apps without using an Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Nvidia Shield TV, or another streaming accessory. You may also find built-in voice assistants, such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, that offer hands-free control.
One final smart feature you may come across is casting. Casting allows you to push the content on your smartphone, laptop, or tablet to your TV screen—so long as the devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
Connections
TVs often have HDMI, Ethernet, and USB ports on them in case you want to connect cable boxes, Blu-ray players, gaming systems, and other accessories. Make a list of what devices you want to connect to your TV before you purchase a model, as you want to ensure that it has the right connections in terms of both type and number.
Refresh Rate
The refresh rate refers to the number of times per second your TV’s image changes. This is measured in hertz (Hz), with most TVs having refresh rates between 60 and 120 Hz. The faster the refresh rate, the less motion blurring.
Screen Technology
A TV’s screen technology determines how crisp and clear its image is. The two main screen technologies that you see on the consumer market are LED and OLED panels. QLED, XLED, and ULED are other names for OLED.
True OLED TV screens outperform LED screens because each pixel lights itself, resulting in a brighter, sharper image. If you’re on a budget, though, LED is for you.
In terms of LED TVs, there are edge-lit and full-array models. The names are pretty self-explanatory; edge-lit LED TVs use lights along the sides of the screen, while full-array TVs use backlights.
Smaller TVs usually have LED screens, while larger ones have OLED screens. Since 55-inch TVs are right in the middle of the TV screen size spectrum, you’ll see both.
How To Use Your 55-Inch Smart TV
While a 55-inch TV is less of an investment than a 65-inch or 85-inch TV, you still need to take proper care of it to enjoy smooth, uninterrupted viewing for years to come. Here are some tips to help homeowners like you maximize their new TV.
Clean the Screen
Avoid cleaning your TV screen with eye lens sprays, as this can damage it. Instead, we recommend spraying a little water on a clean microfiber cloth.
Cover the Camera
If your 55-inch smart TV has a built-in webcam, cover it when you’re not actively using it. While convenient for facilitating video calls, this camera can present privacy concerns if it’s connected to the internet and pointed at you at all times.
Perform Software Updates
The built-in smart technology in your 55-inch TV requires regular updates to stay secure and bug-free. You can set these software updates to happen automatically if you’re not good about keeping on top of them.
Connect a Soundbar
If you want a loud, deep audio experience, consider purchasing an external soundbar. The manufacturers of many TVs make matching soundbars already to ensure compatibility.
Set a PIN Code
If you have children and want to limit their access to certain applications or functions, set a PIN. This code keeps them from watching certain TV shows and movies that you deem inappropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions About 55-Inch Smart TVs
Why is OLED better than LED?
OLED TVs are often seen as better than LED TVs because they’re lighter and thinner. They also offer better contrast and use less electricity. However, LED TVs make sense for buyers who are on a tight budget.
What is the best TV brand?
There are numerous reputable TV manufacturers, including:
- LG
- SAMSUNG
- Sony
- Hisense
- Vizio
- TCL
What is the lifespan of a 55-inch smart TV?
The average life expectancy of a 55-inch smart TV is around five years. However, you can double this number by taking care of your TV. To maintain your smart TV, turn off the screen when you’re not watching anything and dust the screen with a microfiber cloth at least once a week.
Should I use a TV stand or wall mount with my 55-inch smart TV?
It’s up to personal preference, as both a TV stand and a wall mount can give you your optimal viewing angle. Though a wall mount frees up floor space, it’s more difficult to set up.
Why Trust The This Old House Reviews Team
This Old House has empowered homeowners for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement content in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content on its website and social media platforms. The This Old House Reviews Team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content to help inform your purchasing decision for just about any item or resource that you might need for your home. The This Old House Reviews Team has written over 1,000 reviews on products in the home space, from cordless drills to kitchen trash cans, lawn mowers, and dining room decorations.
We recommend products in each review using an intensive research process, spending hours combing through the best available models on Amazon. For a product to make our list of top picks, it must hold a solid sales record on Amazon, have consistently positive customer reviews, and offer unique features, among other factors. After narrowing down our list of recommendations, we conduct additional research and sometimes in-person testing to ensure that the products meet our standards. Once we conclude the research phase, we craft a well-rounded, user-friendly article that includes our recommended products and additional information to help homeowners like you make the right purchase.
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